POCSO Act + fast-track special courts — process (2026 guide)

POCSO Act + fast-track special courts — process (2026 guide) — RTI Wiki

Quick Reply: POCSO Act 2012 protects children from sexual offences. Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) handle POCSO + rape cases — statutory 1-year disposal under Cr PC §439A. 1,000+ FTSCs across India.

Key facts

  • POCSO Act 2012 — comprehensive framework
  • FTSCs designated since 2018
  • Statutory 1-year disposal under CrPC §439A
  • Child-friendly procedures: in-camera, victim shielded
  • POCSO e-Box for online complaints (NCPCR)
  • RTI to court for case status + delays

Step-by-step

  1. FIR at any police station — Mandatory under POCSO §19.
  2. Special Juvenile Police Unit handles — Trained staff.
  3. Medical examination + statement — Forensic + judicial magistrate.
  4. Charge-sheet within 60-90 days — Statutory.
  5. Trial in FTSC — 1-year disposal target.
  6. Compensation under POCSO Rules — Free legal aid.

Common issues

  • FIR refused — file under §154(3) to SP. Mandatory.
  • Trial delayed > 12 months — RTI for cause + remedy.
  • Witness intimidation — apply for witness protection.
  • Compensation delayed — RTI to State Legal Services Authority.

If stuck — file an RTI

Court records are split: judicial records (case file, orders) follow CPC rules + court counter; administrative records (vacancy, infrastructure, listing logic, judges' assets) are disclosable via RTI to the court PIO.

1. Status of my case no. _____ as on date.
2. Reasons for delay / non-listing in past 30 days.
3. Number of similar cases pending + disposed in past 12 months.
4. Procedure to seek certified copy / file inspection.
5. Name + designation of court PIO + appellate authority.

Auto-fill the PIO + your case: Open the AI RTI Drafter →

Frequently asked questions

Free?

Yes — free legal aid via DLSA. Free medical exam.

Confidentiality?

Yes — child's identity protected by law.

Compensation?

Yes — under POCSO Rules + State Victim Compensation Scheme.

1-year disposal really?

Statutory. RTI if exceeded.

Summary + next step

Quick Reply: POCSO Act 2012 protects children from sexual offences. Fast Track Special Courts (FTSCs) handle POCSO + rape cases — statutory 1-year disposal under Cr PC §439A. 1,000+ FTSCs across India.

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